Seniors and Real Estate

Published 02/20/2015

Did you know that there is a specific designation that identifies a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)? That's because working with seniors who are transitioning from their homes is delicate business. In today's technological world of texting, e-mail and Skype, elderly folks are out of the loop. They need old fashioned face-to-face meetings. Phone calls. Family involvement. Where will they go when they can no longer live alone? Do they have a health care proxy? Who will wr...ite checks for them if they become hospitalized? They need a team of professionals to guide them along the way. A holistic approach is the key to an easy transition.

It's advisable to have a family member with them to meet with the Realtor. Perhaps it will take a few meetings before they are comfortable putting their house on the market. A good SRES will guide them toward other professionals to remove the stumbling blocks ahead. It's frightening enough to buy/sell your home, but when your next move could possibly be your last, it can be downright terrifying. Be sure to work with someone who specializes in this field. If they are worth their salt, they will make that transition as seamless as possible.